Months of intense investigation of New Jersey plastic recycling centers resulted in significant arrests and both state and federal charges. Led by the baking industry COMBAT (Control of Missing Baskets and Trays) group and joined by the United States Postal Service and the FBI, a major plastic recycling operation with facilities across the Mid-Atlantic region was targeted. The value of bakery trays, milk crates, pharmacy and postal tubs recycled at two New Jersey facilities exceeded $2.5 million. Over $100,000 worth of plastic was recovered by local law enforcement. ABA has been assisting the COMBAT group in its efforts by bringing together the dairy and soft drink industries and the Postal Service to fight the theft of plastic containers.

Background on Tray Theft and COMBAT – JR Paterakis of Northeast Foods has been very active and a force for this issue on behalf of the baking industry, hiring detectives to work exclusively on tracking down plastic tray thieves and documenting their activities. These efforts have led to a crackdown of tray thefts and stiffer penalties for the offenders.